April 28, 2021

The Honorable The Honorable Robert B. Aderholt Chairman Ranking Member Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Science, and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations Committee on Appropriations U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House of Representatives H-310 The Capitol 1016 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Washington, DC 20515

Dear Chairman Cartwright and Ranking Member Aderholt:

We write to request $60 million for the NASA National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (Space Grant) in the FY 2022 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill. Space Grant is a competitive, state-federal partnership functioning through consortia in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. The program enables students to engage in outreach activities and research projects that prepare them for STEM careers. As this is a state-based program, we urge the Committee to ensure that the entire appropriated amount, less a 10% administration fee and 5% special projects set aside, be allocated to consortia-lead institutions in all 52 jurisdictions so that these activities can continue without interruption.

Space Grant consortia are effective catalysts in each state to help grow a high-tech workforce. With nearly 1,000 partner institutions, this program promotes aerospace and other NASA relevant STEM education activities, and helps sustain a pipeline of students for innovative, high-tech jobs. Our home state of has 21 consortium members, including 4-year colleges and universities, 2-year colleges, and non-profit organizations. For every dollar NASA provides, Space Grant consortia contribute on average an equal or greater amount from non-federal sources to maximize resources available to students in their states. Because this is a federal-state partnership, the Space Grant program not only addresses national needs, but has proven to be very effective at fulfilling state and regional STEM goals. NASA program data shows that, of all participating students graduating in a particular year, over 80% move on to either a STEM job in industry, NASA, academia, or they enroll in a STEM graduate program.

As you work to advance the Fiscal Year 2022 CJS bill, please keep this important program in mind. It is vital we sustain the excellent work being done in the states by continuing to support this program with $60 million in FY22.

Sincerely,

Joe Neguse Member of Congress Member of Congress

Jason Crow Diana DeGette Member of Congress Member of Congress

Doug Lamborn Member of Congress